So today I am looking at the 12 o'clock news and the reporter says, "Up next, FDA is set to review three new obesity drugs." ARE YOU SERIOUS? When did obesity become an illness that needed to be treated by drugs?
The three new obesity drugs are Vivus Inc.'s Qnexa, Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc.'s Lorcaserin and Orexigen Therapeutics Inc.'s Contrave.
Such news is a testament to the power of pharmaceutical companies. Now as a scientist, I am an advocate for life saving drugs...I mean, the field of science has helped eradicate diseases, improved our quality of life and just been an all around blessing. However, with most drugs there is always a side affect. Hence, my philosophy is if which ever ailment you are suffering from can be treated by behavior modification (change in lifestyle habits) or through some natural remedy, choose those and not a drug that may have potential risks.
Obesity's recent placement on the list of chronic diseases is absurd...that could have definitely been prevented. We must take more responsibility for our actions and not the easy way out... like popping a pill. Get real people...Yes, you can enjoy a french fry here and there and even a good southern Sunday dinner inspired by butter-loving Paula Deen but everything in moderation.
Please believe me when I say pharmaceutical companies are not interested in fighting obesity...they want your money. If they really cared, they'd tell you to put down the remote control, toss the bag of chips and go outside, ride a bike and afterward eat a nice small serving of yogurt.
Let's work to get obesity off the chronic disease list WITHOUT the assistance of Vivus Inc., Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Orexigen Therapeutics Inc..
Fruit salad anyone?
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